SUMMARY
The Information Technology Specialist provides non-personal technical support services for the Mescalero Service Unit in Mescalero, New Mexico. This position is responsible for the installation, configuration, operation, and sustainability of IT systems and related infrastructure in compliance with Indian Health Service (IHS) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) standards. The specialist ensures that servers, network systems, and software environments remain secure, functional, and efficient to support healthcare delivery. The role directly enables IHS medical and administrative personnel to perform effectively within a mission-critical, health related IT-driven environment.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Salary Range: $40,000 - $55,000
Comprehensive federal benefits package available to full-time employees, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan participation.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Install, configure, and maintain computer hardware, operating systems, and network devices supporting IHS clinical and administrative operations.
- Provide system diagnostics, patch management, and daily system administration of LAN/WAN environments, including Windows and Linux servers.
- Administer and support the Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS), maintaining data integrity and ensuring 24/7 system availability critical to healthcare operations.
- Manage network security protocols including antivirus deployment, access controls, firewalls, and encryption consistent with HHS and IHS cybersecurity policies.
- Troubleshoot system failures, evaluate log files, and coordinate with regional IT teams to resolve network or application interruptions.
- Support software upgrades, backups, and patch releases according to change management procedures.
- Provide end-user support and training for IHS-approved applications, EHR systems, and remote connectivity tools.
- Ensure compliance with privacy and security standards under HIPAA, IHS Circulars, and HHS cybersecurity frameworks.
- Maintain documentation for system architecture, equipment inventory, and incident resolution actions.
- Assist in disaster recovery planning, risk assessments, and infrastructure evaluations for continuous service improvement.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Proficiency in system administration across Windows Server, Linux, and Active Directory platforms.
- Knowledge of IT security controls, Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) standards, and IHS data protection policies.
- Practical experience with network infrastructure setup, troubleshooting TCP/IP, VPN, and firewall administration.
- Familiarity with healthcare IT systems such as EHR integration, particularly RPMS or modern IHS-EHR platforms.
- Ability to interpret and apply IHS technical policies and HHS acquisition regulations for IT infrastructure support.
- Skilled in system documentation, analytical problem-solving, and providing remote or on-site technical support.
- Strong communication skills for collaborating with medical, tribal, and administrative personnel.
- Must be capable of meeting strict IHS suitability standards, especially when working in areas accessible to children or patient groups requiring supervised access.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field, or 24 semester hours in equivalent coursework.
- Certifications (Preferred): CompTIA Security+, Network+, CCNA, Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator (or MCSA), or ITIL Foundation. CISSP or CISM is recognized for cybersecurity functions. These certifications validate compliance with IHS standards.
- Minimum three (3) to five (5) years of progressive responsibility in IT infrastructure support or network/system administration. This must include at least one year of specialized IT experience working independently.
- Experience in healthcare or federal IT environments is desirable, particularly with exposure to IHS, HHS, or other government healthcare systems.
- Professional experience must demonstrate capabilities in installing/configuring operating systems, maintaining network infrastructure, troubleshooting software and hardware, and applying cybersecurity measures.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment is a clinical and administrative healthcare setting within the Mescalero Service Unit, a small rural hospital operated by the Indian Health Service. Work takes place in offices, server rooms, and clinical support areas with moderate noise and frequent interaction with medical and administrative staff.
The facility is climate-controlled and adheres to strict HIPAA and IHS data security standards. Occasional access to patient care areas may be necessary for IT system maintenance or troubleshooting. Employees are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and respect for tribal values while supporting essential healthcare operations that serve the Mescalero Apache community.
Our Values:
Native American Owned & Proud | Accountable | Team Focused | Innovative | Visionary | Excellence
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- The employee is regularly required to sit or stand for extended periods while operating computers, servers, or network systems.
- Frequent walking, bending, and reaching may be required to access equipment or network components in various parts of the facility.
- The position requires occasional lifting or moving of computer and networking equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Must be able to crawl under desks, kneel, or stoop to connect cables or reposition hardware as needed in workspace or data closet environments.
- Manual dexterity and fine motor skills are required to handle small parts, operate tools, and use a keyboard or mouse for extended durations.
- Vision requirements include the ability to perform tasks requiring close vision, peripheral vision, and color differentiation, as well as the ability to adjust focus between on-screen and physical objects.
- Hearing and speech abilities must be sufficient to communicate with staff in person or by telephone, particularly when providing support to clinical personnel during operational hours.
- Work is primarily performed in an office or clinical environment with moderate noise, though occasional exposure to hospital or utility areas may occur
AAP/EEO Statement
Ho-Chunk, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. However, preference may be extended to persons of Indian descent in accordance with applicable laws.
Note: This position is being posted in anticipation of award of a federal contract. Employment is contingent upon Flatwater Group being awarded the contract and meeting all requirements set forth by the contracting agency. Candidates are encouraged to apply and may be contacted for further evaluation as part of the proposal process.
